What is Contraceptive Implant used for?
A contraceptive implant is a long-term birth control method that is placed under the skin of the upper arm. It releases a low, steady dose of the hormone progestin to prevent pregnancy by pausing ovulation, thickening the mucus of the cervix, and thinning the lining of the uterus. The implant is reversible and effective, and can be removed anytime the user decides it's not right for them or they want to get pregnant.
How to prepare for Contraceptive Implant?
If you are considering getting a contraceptive implant, you should discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider to ensure it is a safe and appropriate option for you. They will assess your overall health and determine the best time to insert the implant based on your period cycle and current birth control usage. You may need to take a pregnancy test before the implant can be placed, and you should use condoms or another non-hormonal backup method of birth control for the first week after the implant is inserted. The implant is generally effective for three years, after which it can be removed, replaced, or left in for continued contraception. Remember to inform your healthcare provider about any allergies, medical conditions, or medications you are taking, as they may impact your eligibility for the contraceptive implant or its effectiveness.
How are Contraceptive Implant results reported?
The contraceptive implant results are reported as being effective for up to three years. After three years, the implant must be replaced to continue protecting against unplanned pregnancy. Additionally, the care team might suggest removing the implant if the user develops certain conditions such as migraine with aura, heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, jaundice, or significant depression. The removal procedure typically takes less than five minutes, and a new implant can be placed immediately after removal if desired.
Understanding the report
Contraceptive implants are highly effective in preventing pregnancy, with fewer than 1 in 100 women becoming pregnant during the one-year usage. If a woman does conceive while using the implant, there is a higher chance of an ectopic pregnancy, but the overall risk is still lower compared to those not using birth control. The implant must be replaced after three years to continue providing effective protection against unplanned pregnancy. Results are interpreted based on the effectiveness of the contraceptive implant in preventing pregnancy and the associated side effects that some users may experience. Some common side effects include changes in menstruation, mood swings, headaches, and hormonal changes. If a woman experiences any of the listed symptoms or signs, such as breast lumps, heavy bleeding, jaundice, or signs of infection at the implant site, it is essential to contact their care team. Removal of the implant may be suggested if a woman develops specific conditions, such as migraine with aura, heart disease or stroke, uncontrolled high blood pressure, jaundice, or significant depression. The removal procedure is simple and can be done in less than five minutes. If desired, a new implant can be placed immediately after the removal. For more information or guidance on contraceptive implants or their removal, consult with a healthcare provider.
Limitations and Considerations
The contraceptive implant is a long-term birth control method that does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. It has a low failure rate, with fewer than 1 in 100 women getting pregnant during a one-year usage period. However, if pregnancy does occur, there's a higher chance of an ectopic pregnancy. Possible side effects of using the contraceptive implant include pain, changes in menstruation, ovarian cysts, lowered sex drive, mood swings, nausea, and weight gain. If you experience breast lumps, heavy or long-lasting bleeding, symptoms of a blood clot, jaundice, or signs of infection at the implant site, you should contact your care team. The implant can prevent pregnancy for up to three years but needs to be replaced at the three-year mark. Your care team might suggest removing it if you develop certain conditions, such as migraine with aura, heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or significant depression. It's essential to discuss your risk factors with your care team to determine if the contraceptive implant is a safe and suitable option for you.